Gaustad game-time decision, but not likely to play
Paul Gaustad, who has been suffering from flu-like symptoms, skipped the morning skate today and has been categorized as a game-time decision to play against the Maple Leafs tonight in HSBC Arena.
"We'll see whether he plays," coach Lindy Ruff said.
It's unlikely he will. Adam Mair skated in Gaustad's spot on the fourth line with Matt Ellis and Patrick Kaleta. Jochen Hecht worked at Gaustad's position on a power-play unit, setting up in front of the net.
Gaustad played through the illness during Wednesday's 4-1 victory in New Jersey. But he looked exhausted afterward and skipped practice Thursday.
---John Vogl
the issue of lalime has nothing to do with patrick himself. it has to do with the rest of the team providing the same or better effort as they do when miller plays. lalime is a capable nhl backstop. he will not lose many games his team should win.
part of the reason the sabres have missed so many playoffs lately is their penchant for making excuses real. maturity, accountability? i like what i've seen, but perhaps the final test is to win a few for lalime.
Posted by: roy | October 30, 2009 at 04:46 PM
You wont see Lalime in goal tonight because tonight gives Miller the opportunity to play in front of Team USA's coach and GM. If you want to see Miller in action during the Olympics, you'll for sure see him in net tonight. My bet is you'll see Lalime tomorrow night at the Islanders. I am in agreement though that Toronto would be the better team to sit Miller against, but knowing what the outcome could be with Miller playing in net against the Leafs, it's highly unlikely you'll see Lalime. Hopefully even the little tweek of Goose being out doesnt hurt the chemistry of the lines. We have looked great so far, lets hope it keeps going! Let's go Buffalo!
Posted by: Amy | October 30, 2009 at 04:44 PM
I have followed and supported the Sabres since they came into the NHL and have never felt worse about putting in a backup goalie than Lalime. I know they must do it. I think Lindy will play him against the Islanders making us vulnerable. We are far better than both of these upcoming opponents. So we should be able to win with Lalime, but may have to score 7 to do it. I was hoping they would have gotten someone else. I see the schedule and also say he must play him on the West coast swing. So let it be against the Ducks as they are not only having trouble but Lalime played one of his best games there last year in a losing effort. He cant stop a beach ball.
Posted by: Rick | October 30, 2009 at 03:42 PM
Give Goose a rest and the rest of the team can step up their game. Put Lalime in and hopefully the rest of his teammates won't throw him under the bus. They should not look at this game vs. Toronto as an "easy win" either.
Posted by: jan | October 30, 2009 at 03:32 PM
Lindy should go with Lalime tonight and Miller tomorrow. The Leafs are the weakest team in the league right now but they also stocked up on goons over the summer so no point in risking Miller getting gooned. Send in Lalime.
Posted by: Ken E | October 30, 2009 at 01:46 PM
Just hope it does not spread throughout the team. That's why schools and businesses are advised to send students and employees with flu-like symptoms home.
Posted by: donjoe | October 30, 2009 at 12:59 PM
Doesn't matter if Goose doesn't play tonight - a pee wee team could beat the Leafs - GO BUFFALO!!!
Posted by: Chris Krueger | October 30, 2009 at 12:33 PM